Blog Archives
The Path of Saints and Sinners
The Path of Saints and Sinners is the fourth book in J.F. Collen’s Journey of Cornelia Rose series, and it carries Cornelia “Nellie” Rose Wright into the stark and complicated world of Utah Territory in the mid-1800s. The story picks up with Nellie, her husband Obadiah, and their daughters after the grueling journey westward. They arrive in Great Salt Lake City, hoping for rest, stability, and a sense of community, only to find tension, hostility, and political turmoil instead. The book blends the trials of pioneer life with the undercurrents of faith, loyalty, and the uneasy intersection between the United States government and the Mormon settlers.
I felt pulled right into Nellie’s restless heart from the start. She is exhausted and homesick, yet her sharp wit and stubborn courage refuse to give way. The dialogue brims with energy, and the little details like dusty wagon wheels, harsh light, and the smell of mold on corn husks make the setting feel immediate and alive. At times, I found myself irritated with Obadiah’s insistence on pressing forward in the face of obvious danger, but then that frustration softened because it mirrored Nellie’s own. The writing does not shy away from messy conflict. It lingers in the gaps between what is said and what is felt, and I admired that.
The book meanders through conversations and stretches of description that sometimes slow the tension. Yet, even when I grew restless, I found myself laughing at Nellie’s sharp asides or touched by the innocence of her daughters. There is an honesty in the way Collen portrays family life, messy and tender all at once, and that honesty kept me invested.
I realized this book is less about resolution and more about survival. Nellie’s world is uncertain, and her doubts echo across the pages in a way that felt strangely modern to me. I would recommend The Path of Saints and Sinners to readers who enjoy historical fiction rooted in strong female voices, especially those who like their history layered with personal struggle and the grit of daily life.
Pages: 504 | ASIN : B0FHPXS955
Christmas Actually: A festive novel about family and forgiveness
Christmas Actually, by Lisa Darcy, is a heartwarming yet humorously chaotic exploration of midlife, motherhood, career revival, and family dynamics set against the backdrop of the holiday season. Katie, the protagonist, is a once-aspiring photographer grappling with the pressures of parenting, a faltering marriage, and the rediscovery of her professional identity. The story unfolds with relatable messiness and sharp wit, drawing readers into Katie’s world of imperfect Christmases and the quest for fulfillment.
Lisa Darcy’s writing is charmingly down-to-earth, though, at times, it feels a bit overly descriptive. Early in the book, Katie’s chaotic dinner party with her husband’s Mormon colleagues is laugh-out-loud funny yet painfully awkward. The tension between Katie’s desire to reclaim her photography career and her insecurities about keeping up with new technology is palpable. Darcy has a knack for making the reader feel like they’re part of Katie’s bustling household, with all its mishaps and tender moments.
What I enjoyed most were the layered relationships, especially between Katie and her teenage daughter, Lexi. Their interactions brim with a mix of love and exasperation, reflecting the generational clash over social media and self-expression. The holiday theme is cleverly interwoven without being overbearing. Katie’s hesitation to embrace Christmas traditions mirrors her internal struggles, and her eventual engagement with the festive season aligns beautifully with her personal growth. Darcy’s portrayal of the season’s chaos, complete with mismatched decorations and burned pavlovas, is refreshingly real.
Christmas Actually is perfect for readers who appreciate stories about juggling life’s messiness with humor and grace. It’s especially suited for working moms, fans of domestic dramas with comedic undertones, and anyone needing a reminder that life doesn’t need to be picture-perfect to be fulfilling. Lisa Darcy’s relatable characters and sharp observations will leave you smiling—and perhaps reaching for your camera to capture your own “perfectly imperfect” moments.
Pages: 346 | ASIN : B0DCDCFY1B
Moving Forward
The Space Between Dreaming follows two women struggling to have a family of their own who meet at an art gallery and form an unlikely friendship. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I had always wanted to write a story that featured strong friendships that was perhaps a bit unexpected. I decided to do this through friendships that spanned different generations and different circumstances as a way to show the strength we gain from women who are in our corner. Since I’m also an artist, I took a lot of inspiration from my own experience in showing in galleries and working at art fairs.
Grace and Jane are both relatable characters that readers are drawn to and want to help. Are there any emotions or memories from your own life that you put into your characters’ lives?
I used my real-life great-grandmother’s name for one of the characters, although the personality of the character is totally different. The character of Jane loves the Milwaukee Art Museum and has since she was a kid, which is something I took directly from my own life.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
My love of art and the power of expressing emotions through painting is something I wanted to convey. I wanted readers to feel how valuable the practice and appreciation of artistic endeavor can be in healing, decision-making, and everyday life. Also the theme of moving forward despite difficult circumstances was an important one to include. I wanted this to be an inspiring, hopeful book for someone to pick up.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I just released an art book called Poetry and Paint. It features my original paintings and poetry. I’m also working on another novel, but I don’t have a date for its release yet.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
Grace and Jane both crave family but for much different reasons. Grace longs for the child she was never able to conceive and Jane for the new family she will have once she marries her boyfriend. They meet and become unlikely friends when Grace’s husband paints his masterpiece and Jane’s gallery represents him.
As they ponder their future, Jane’s meddling 80-year-old landlady helps them see the beauty in letting go of expectations. Grace and Jane each see something different in the painting, and it causes them to look beyond their stubborn dreams to a fresh reality that could hold the key to their happiness.
Forks & Knives: A Marriage at the Crossroads of Addiction and Codependency
Mimi Wahlfeldt’s Forks and Knives: A Marriage at the Crossroads of Addiction and Codependency is a poignant and powerful fictional narrative rooted in real-life events. The novel offers an intimate glimpse into the turmoil of a marriage engulfed by the struggles of addiction, painting a vivid and heartrending picture of what it means to love and live in the shadow of alcoholism. The story centers on Kat Torrington, a woman who uncovers her husband Eric’s secret battle with alcoholism just as she prepares to welcome their first child. This discovery places Kat at a critical juncture—a decision point that many readers may find relatable: should she stay and fight for her marriage or walk away from it?
Wahlfeldt’s choice to tell the story through Kat’s first-person perspective is one of the novel’s most compelling elements. This narrative approach allows readers to experience the emotional depth of Kat’s journey firsthand. Her fears, hopes, and inner conflicts are laid bare, creating a raw and unfiltered portrayal of a life entwined with addiction. The narrative’s strength lies in its authenticity. Wahlfeldt does not shy away from depicting the harsh realities of addiction and its ripple effects on relationships and families. The novel delves into the cyclical nature of denial, relapse, and recovery with a stark honesty that is both challenging and enlightening.
The metaphor of “forks and knives” serves as a powerful symbol throughout the novel, representing the difficult choices Kat faces and the often sharp, painful consequences of those decisions. For readers who have faced similar struggles, Forks and Knives offers a sense of validation and shared experience.
Wahlfeldt’s Forks & Knives goes beyond mere storytelling; it offers a form of closure to those who have questioned whether they gave their all in the most challenging moments of their lives. Whether you are familiar with the battles of addiction or simply seeking a compelling, emotionally resonant read, Forks and Knives is a novel that will stay with you long after you have turned the last page.
Pages: 293 | ASIN : B0CZ18RM29
Make Connections With Loved Ones
Bridges Between Our Hearts follows a woman on a journey to reconnect with family and friends in a post-pandemic world who struggles with complex relationships and finds solace in her writing. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration for the story is that it is the third in a series that follows one woman, her family, and friends through the undulating journey of emotions while adjusting to the grief following a traumatic loss. I endured similar loss several years ago and the loving relationships of those around me, coupled with reflective writing brought me some level of solace. While I did not intend to write specifically about the pandemic, the logical sequence of time passing made it necessary. Ultimately, it provided an interesting backdrop for examining how relationships endure during the best and worst of times.
Larissa struggles to find her way in this post-pandemic world and has to look within herself to find answers. Were you able to achieve everything you wanted with the characters in the novel?
Most of the characters have been developing throughout the trilogy, but new ones were added in this book as well. Readers come to know them through Larissa’s interactions with them, as well as through her private reflections in her diary. I believe that the new characters, as well as the others aging and changing, make for deep, meaningful connections.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Bridges Between Our Hearts?
My hope is that readers appreciate the importance of finding ways to build bridges and make connections with loved ones, regardless of where they are and how much time lapses. There are far too many forces that tend to separate and divide people. I’d like for readers to consider that love does not die when people clash, or a child moves away, or when someone passes away.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I’m working on a non-fiction book about people who find success in life, in spite of being told they most likely will not. Through interviews and story-telling, I hope to inspire those who choose an atypical path. The working title is Funny Thing About Luck… I expect it to be available sometime in mid-2025.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
My Year of Casual Acquaintances
Ruth F. Stevens’ My Year of Casual Acquaintances is a captivating and heartwarming narrative that delves into the trials and victories of beginning anew. The protagonist, Mar Meyer, embarks on a transformative journey following a painful divorce. In a bold move to reclaim her life, Mar abandons everything she once knew—her home, friends, and even her identity—to seek out new experiences and adventures.
Mar’s story unfolds through a series of casual yet meaningful encounters, each contributing significantly to her personal growth. From a fellow gym-goer grappling with her own dilemmas to a charming hip-hop instructor, a humorous consultant, a benevolent older man, and Charlie, a charismatic novelist with a profound connection, each character imparts valuable lessons to Mar. These interactions, rich with humor, empathy, and insight, enable Mar to confront her insecurities and embrace the potential for genuine happiness and connection.
Stevens excels in crafting a diverse array of quirky and endearing characters who leave a lasting impression on readers. Mar emerges as a relatable and compelling protagonist—flawed yet resolute and refreshingly authentic. Her struggles and achievements echo the experiences of many women navigating midlife transitions, making her journey deeply resonant and engaging. The novel’s structure, characterized by a blend of laugh-out-loud moments and introspection, maintains a strong grip on the reader’s attention. Memorable scenes, such as comical goat yoga sessions, provide lighthearted relief, while Mar’s introspective moments lend the narrative depth and emotional weight. The brisk pace and witty prose ensure that the story remains absorbing and difficult to set aside.
One of the book’s most notable strengths is its exploration of second chances. Mar’s transformation from a woman shattered by betrayal to one who discovers strength and joy in her newfound independence is both inspiring and uplifting. The love story interwoven within the plot is beautifully articulated, adding another dimension to Mar’s evolution.
My Year of Casual Acquaintances is more than just a tale of starting over; it’s a celebration of human connections, self-discovery, and the courage to embrace change. Ruth F. Stevens adeptly captures the essence of rebuilding one’s life with sincerity and elegance. This novel is a delightful choice for anyone who has encountered significant life changes or enjoys a well-crafted story of personal growth and relationship dynamics. It is a journey of healing, forgiveness, and the realization that it’s never too late to begin anew.
Pages: 322 | ASIN : B0D43GW5XZ
Inner Strength
In Next Stop, Boston, a young woman finds herself in the care of a temperamental rock-and-roller following her sister’s tragic death. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
The story is very loosely inspired by the old Fellini film classic La Strada. I wrote it for fun during one of the COVID surges. It encapsulates all my guilty pleasures–rock music, scandal-ridden rock star bios/memoirs, Hollywood gossip, fanfiction, and soap operas.
In addition to La Strada, the story is also inspired by other favorites, Janet Fitch’s White Oleander, Thomas Hardy’s Tess of the D’Urbervilles (my favorite novel as a teen), and the film Captain Fantastic.
The inspiration for the novel has its genesis to when I was a struggling theater actress in New York City in the early 1990s. I was called in by an off-off-Broadway theater company to participate in a play reading of a script about a young girl and a musician. I read the part of the young girl. The script was very well received, and I remember everyone commenting on how much it reminded them of La Strada. At the time, I didn’t see the movie, but later I did–several times. So, the germ of the idea began there. However, I put my own feminist spin on it because what was acceptable when the film came out in the early 1950s, doesn’t work in this modern post-MeToo era.
Was there anything from your own life that you put into the characters in your novel?
Other than my love of rock music, there is very little from my own life that I incorporated into Next Stop, Boston. I certainly don’t have any personal traits that are similar to Dez’s–that’s for sure. At least, I hope not. (I did stay one week at the Chelsea Hotel years ago, but that was in between apartments, and it wasn’t to score heroin). But I did enjoy writing him very much. It’s so much fun, even cathartic, to create a character most readers would consider to be the “villain” of the story. The thing about villains or morally ambiguous characters is they never consider themselves in that light. Not at all. They always think they’re in the right and everyone else is wrong! It’s very important to humanize them and invest them with a lot of nuance and dimension because if you don’t, you’re just going to create caricatures or stock villains with no depth or insight into their motivations.
I did base Val, the drummer who tries to help Geri, on a charming, cute drummer I briefly dated way back when. He was a sweetie, very similar to Val’s temperament and physicality. Sadly, I went on a few dates with him right before his band went on the road to promote an album and a video on MTV. Though we talked about picking up where we left off after the tour ended, I never saw him again. HA-HA. Musicians!
The only points of similarity I have with any of the characters in Next Stop, Boston would be with Geri in terms of her vulnerability, keen curiosity about the world, her sincere desire to improve herself, and her frustration at being misunderstood and dismissed by the adults around her considering her youth and neurodivergence. I’m not neurodivergent, but I was badly bullied when I was a young teen and still carry those wounds around with me as an older adult. That type of trauma can either strengthen, harden, or weaken you. I did incorporate some of that inner turmoil into Geri when I was working on her POV chapters.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
If there is any message I wanted to convey with this story is how important self-reliance is in the end. Never depend on anyone for the validation of your self-worth. Depend on yourself and draw upon your inner strength to grow and move on.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
For my next novel, I am toying with an idea of a story that will take place in 1986. The story will draw a little on my crazy youth in New York City and those nutty survival jobs I took to pay the rent and buy food.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Next Stop, Boston
Next Stop, Boston is a riveting tale that delves into the depths of love, tragedy, and personal transformation within the backdrop of the rock music scene and familial relationships. Iris Dorbian masterfully crafts a narrative that revolves around Geri, a young woman grappling with the aftermath of her sister Michelle’s tragic death, and Dez, a troubled rock star who unexpectedly becomes her guardian. Set against the electric atmosphere of backstage concerts, their complex relationship unfolds, driven by a shared history of loss and a bond forged in the fires of dysfunction.
From the outset, Dorbian captivates readers with Geri’s journey, from her humble beginnings to her immersion in the tumultuous world of rock and roll alongside Dez. The authenticity of their dynamic, fraught with tension yet laced with moments of unexpected connection, propels the narrative forward, ensnaring readers in its grip. The rich tapestry of characters, each intricately drawn with flaws and vulnerabilities that render them achingly human makes them relatable. Geri’s quest for self-discovery amidst the chaos of fame and personal tragedy, mirrored by Dez’s own inner turmoil, unfolds with a rawness that resonates deeply. Dorbian deftly navigates their emotional landscapes, presenting a nuanced exploration of grief, resilience, and the complexities of human relationships.
The rock music scene serves not merely as a backdrop but as a pulsating, vibrant force that infuses the narrative with energy and authenticity. Dorbian’s vivid descriptions of concerts and musical performances leap off the page, immersing readers in Geri and Dez’s world with palpable intensity. Through this lens, she explores themes of identity, belonging, and the pursuit of artistic expression, inviting readers to experience the transformative power of music alongside her characters.
Next Stop, Boston is a testament to Dorbian’s skill as a storyteller and her insightful exploration of the human condition. As the final pages are turned, readers are left with a lingering sense of both satisfaction and longing—a testament to the enduring impact of Geri and Dez’s journey. Dorbian’s novel is a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the redemptive power of love, making it a must-read for fans of literary fiction and music enthusiasts alike.
Pages: 206 | ASIN : B0CLL32H97
